News Release

IPFW RiverFest 2013 Moves Up the River, Adds New Events

Key Info

IPFW RiverFest 2013 presented by Steel Dynamics

Saturday, June 22, 2013

New location on IPFW’s north campus

New events include 5K Mud run and Cardboard Regatta

Free admission and parking

FORT WAYNE, Ind.—IPFW RiverFest 2013 presented by Steel Dynamics will have a whole new look when it opens Saturday, June 22. At a news conference this morning, (May 14, 2013), RiverFest Project Manager Sarah Payne announced this year’s event will be held on IPFW’s north campus area, behind the Visual and Performing Arts Building, Williams Theatre, and adjacent to the SCAN Garden. This new location also provides plenty of near-by parking, including Parking Garage 3 and several open lots in that area.

Also new this year is the RiverFest Mud Run. Payne said this is “…not your average 5k! The first of its kind in northeast Indiana, participants run, crawl, roll, climb, and jump their way through 12 challenging, but fun, obstacles and the end the race full of pride and covered in mud!” Registration for the run is now open.

The IPFW Alumni Association and Kelly Box & Packaging are teaming up along with Rock 104 to present the inaugural Cardboard Regatta. This first-ever cardboard boat race on the St. Joseph River is sure to become a fan favorite. Registration for the regatta is now open.

Other new events or initiatives for RiverFest include the Farm to Fork area that will highlight the ways in which agriculture impacts water quality; showcase organizations working to bring locally produced products to our tables; and include an area for farm machinery and animals, pony rides, and locally produced treats.

For the adventurous younger crowd, there will be a Fun in Motion area. With a trampoline bungee jump, rock climbing wall, Velcro wall, and laser tag, the kids are sure to have a blast.

Payne said the new larger location on the north end of campus allows plenty of room for all the RiverFest favorites, including FamilyFest for more kids’ activities, FoodFest, ArtFest, and live music into the night. There will still be many ways to get out on the St. Joseph River including pontoon, kayak, and canoe rides. And as always, the night ends with a spectacular fireworks show that will be launched from pontoons on the river.

Irene Walters, executive director of University Relations and Communications, recognized and thanked the major sponsors, including naming sponsor Steel Dynamics, for their continued generosity that makes RiverFest not only possible, but also makes it possible to have free admission and parking. Those sponsors include: